This report compares average rates of frequent teacher absence (more than 10 days) for teachers with and without union or union-like contracts in traditional public schools and charter schools. The study's rationale is that such absences substantively harm students and cost taxpayers billions of dollars. It finds that teachers contractually…

The problem of student and teacher absenteeism is examined in terms of costs and the effect on academic performance, and solutions are suggested. A description of the major research to determine causes and to describe the nonattenders is included. (JMF)

Discusses the need for a comprehensive substitute teacher program in schools along with the important components of such a program. Identifies the roles of the principal, regular teacher, substitute teacher, and the superintendent in an effective substitute teacher program. (HB)

Discusses improving attendance of staff and administrators by providing various financial and recognition-oriented incentives including savings bonds, plaques, and a year-end trophy. Rewards for perfect and near-perfect attendance resulted in a 16 percent improvement in total staff attendance and improvement in 90 percent of individual schools.…

Suggests that substitute teachers be eliminated and that schools establish a pool of well-qualified, talented "guest teachers" to replace them. (FL)

School districts across the country are developing information and special programs to assist substitute teachers. The following examples of such initiatives illustrate creative, often cost effective practices to improve the effectiveness of substitute teachers or to reduce the district's need for them: (1) Many districts have developed handbooks…

Teacher absenteeism is a serious problem symptomized by lack of board and superintendent leadership, incomplete attendance records and policies, job dissatisfaction, and failure to recognize the problem or reward good attendance. The author outlines eight solutions that match each symptom and five false beliefs about teacher absenteeism. (RW)

An efficient way to help students achieve academically is to maximize the consistent attendance of permanent teachers in the classroom. Students nationwide are spending increased amounts of time with instructors other than their permanent teachers. A large contributor to the problem of teacher absenteeism is mandatory leave for professional…

Argues that when teachers take time away from the classroom for workshops, teacher meetings and similar activities, students suffer. Adds that taking time away from the classroom for school improvement tasks is counterproductive. Suggests that rethinking the school calendar is a way to minimize disruption, and offers several possible scenarios.…

This paper reviews five popular and emerging models for the implementation of Internet and network technology in higher education: low tech, lab, laptop, virtual, and networked systems. Three perspectives on these models--that of a faculty member at the University of Lethbridge (Alberta, Canada), an administrator at the University of Lethbridge,…

Teacher absenteeism is a growing problem, according to this short guide on reducing absenteeism. The author briefly reviews the research data on absenteeism from national, state, and district sources. She lists the average costs of teacher substitution by district size and the characteristics of both districts and teachers with bad absence…